A novel function of Galactomyces candidum in highly efficient ammonia nitrogen removal from low C:N wastewater

A strain of bacteria that demonstrated efficient nitrogen removal potential under low C:N conditions was screened from landfill leachate. The strain was identified as Galactomyces candidum by ITS sequencing, and growth density and removal of ammonia nitrogen were assessed after 24 h of incubation. The results showed that the optimum ammonia nitrogen reduction conditions for G. candidum was at pH 8.0 and 30 °C, with a C:N ratio of 1.5:1; the highest rate of ammonia nitrogen removal was 93.1%. This novel function of G. candidum offers great potential in the removal of ammonia nitrogen from sewage, especially in low C:N wastewater. Our study provides a new theoretical basis for the industrial application of bacteria in the biochemical treatment of wastewater and reduces environmental pollution.